Hi,

Went to change my flight because a family member was diagnosed with cancer and has to undergo Surgery in Melbourne the day we planned to fly home. Qantas staff were good offered to waive fees however the fare difference Melbourne to Darwin was over $1000 each, which I have to multiply by 3 because ($3000) as she can't travel alone.

Anyway it looks like a busy time of year but I notice on ExpertFlyer that half the plane has seats blocked? Generally why do Qantas block seats are these seats already sold, but for whatever reason have not been reserved?

My Brother flew home the other day already had a cheap ticket and I was looking at flights to join him (same flight) tickets were $1400 same thing all seats blocked. I didn't end up flying, then he told me the flight was actually half empty.

Makes me think it may be some weird pricing strategy as opposed to actual seats booked.



Any thoughts?

We're looking at doing some horrible connection flights or staying in Melbourne longer to try and get a cheaper fare the following week which isn't ideal.